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Horseshoe Crab
| Scientific Name | Limulus polyphemus |
| Diet | Omnivore; Bristle Worms, Small Fish, Scavenger |
| Alt Common Name | Maeng da (Thai) |
| Family | Pycnogonidae |
| Origin | Caribbean |
| Aquarist Level | Novice |
| Reef Safe | With Caution † |
| Coloration | Tan to Dark Brown |
| Disposition | Peaceful |
| Hardiness | Very |
| Mature Size | 24 inches |
| Reproduction Method | Eggs are fertilized and buried in the intertidal zone during low tide. |
| Sexual Dimorphism | Mature females are larger than the males. |
| Venomous | No |
Notes: Horseshoe crabs, especially when smaller, do an excellent job of stirring crushed coral or sand beds. This species must molt in order to grow. Generally at night, it will lay on its back and exit its exoskeleton. A new exoskeleton is excreted and will harden over a period of several hours. The animal is vulnerable at this time and should not be disturbed. Proper iodine levels assist with successful molting.
† Prey on clams and mussels. Because of the large size reached they may become unintentionally destructive.